For many people in the New England Region, Christmas Day is a time for family, friends and celebration. But for some, whether they’re new to town, alone, facing hardship, or simply without other plans, the holiday can feel isolating. Thankfully, local community groups are once again stepping up to make sure everyone has a place to share a warm meal and good company on 25 December.
One of the highlights this year is the Free Community Christmas Day Lunch in Armidale, hosted by Armidale Uniting Church. Celebrating its long tradition of community spirit, the event starts from 11:30 am with drinks and savouries, followed by a festive lunch at 12 noon featuring cold meats, salads, ice-cream, pavlova, Christmas pudding and more. Volunteers help bring neighbourhoods together, and, if needed, even deliver meals or organise transport for those who can’t make it to the venue.
In neighbouring Glen Innes, the Glen Innes Severn Community Christmas Day Luncheon invites anyone who might otherwise be on their own to enjoy good food and conversation at Glen Innes Town Hall. This free event kicks off from 11 am and runs through to early afternoon. Non-alcoholic beverages are provided, and donations are gratefully accepted to support future gatherings.
In Inverell, the generous team at Food for the Soul is once again offering a heartwarming way to share the season with others through their “A Taste of Christmas” event on Christmas Eve (24 December). Behind the Salvation Army Church Hall at 35 Vivian Street, volunteers will be handing out free takeaway Christmas meals between 2 pm and 3 pm to anyone in the community who’d appreciate a festive meal and some connection during the holidays. Each takeaway bag includes a full Christmas lunch, a drink, festive plates and napkins, and even a small gift — and locals are encouraged to bring a picnic rug and stay a while to enjoy the company of others. Organisers emphasise that everyone is welcome, regardless of circumstance, and they encourage people to register ahead of time if possible
In Tamworth, Homes North and The Salvation Army are inviting the community to come together for a free Christmas Lunch on Thursday, 18 December, offering a welcoming space for people of all ages to celebrate the festive season. Running from 12 pm to 2 pm at The Salvation Army Rooms, 328 Goonoo Goonoo Road, the event will feature a shared lunch, friendly conversation and a strong sense of community spirit.
Organisers and volunteers say that Christmas is about sharing joy with others, and that everyone is welcome, whether you’ve lived here all your life or are just passing through. If you know of others organising lunches, picnics or festive meals this Christmas, please let us know so we can add them to this guide!
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